[Click on the icon on the left, to download the TRL Comparison Table (PDF)]. A comprehensive view of TRLs, R&D&I, definitions and adaptation to phama, hardware, software and machine learning projects.
In the complex world of innovation, how do we measure progress from a brilliant idea to a market-ready product? The answer lies in Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).
Born in the 1970s at NASA, the TRL framework was created to systematically assess the maturity of new technologies for space missions. It provided a common language for engineers and managers to evaluate the risks associated with integrating untested tech into multi-billion dollar projects.
Today, TRLs have become a universal standard, used far beyond aerospace. The framework breaks down the innovation journey into nine discrete levels (1-9), from basic research (TRL 1) to full commercial deployment (TRL 9). This staged approach is crucial for several reasons:
- Standardizes Communication: TRLs provide a clear, concise way to report progress to stakeholders, from investors to regulators, ensuring everyone is aligned.
- Improves Decision-Making: By identifying a technology's current stage, organizations can make better-informed decisions about funding, resource allocation, and project timelines.
- Manages Risk: The framework highlights the technical and commercial risks at each level, allowing teams to address challenges proactively before moving to the next, more costly, phase.
The TRL concept has been successfully adapted for diverse fields—from pharmaceuticals and hardware to software and machine learning. This versatility underscores its fundamental importance: TRLs are the indispensable roadmap for navigating the uncertain journey of research, development, and innovation.
A Universal Gauge, Differently Calibrated
While the core TRL scale is consistent, its application varies significantly by field. A comprehensive table, like the one created by Juan Casado (available for download below), beautifully illustrates these nuances.
- In Pharmaceuticals, the path is heavily regulated. TRL 4 corresponds to Phase 1 clinical trials, where a drug's safety is tested. Reaching TRL 8 means achieving new drug registration, a monumental milestone of validation.
- In Hardware, the journey is physical. Moving from a pre-prototype in a lab (TRL 3) to a prototype tested in a relevant environment (TRL 4) involves overcoming significant engineering challenges. TRL 8 represents the shift to pre-serial manufacturing.
- For Software, the progression is through environments. It moves from algorithms running in a simulated space (TRL 4) to being fully integrated and tested in an operational system (TRL 6). TRL 9 means the software is fully available and operational in the market.
- In Machine Learning (ML), the focus is on capability and integration. A TRL 3 represents a proven machine learning "capability," while TRL 6 is all about integrating the model into existing production systems. At TRL 9, the focus shifts to monitoring and iterative improvement in a live environment.
This tailored application makes TRLs indispensable. They allow a biotech CEO, a software engineer, and an AI researcher to all articulate their progress with clarity, manage risk effectively, and align their teams and investors on a common roadmap to success.